How to Build the Perfect Wedding Day Timeline

I get it. You’re in that “recently engaged” bliss and you’re excited for the design, fashion, and pretty details. You can’t wait to marry the love of your life! However, you also realize that there are lots of decisions, such as your wedding day timeline.

Creating your wedding day timeline (or at least a solid rough draft) is one of the first things you should do. When you inquire with me and set up a call, I’ll ask you all of the important questions so we can craft a timeline together and decide how many hours would be ideal for your photography coverage.

Here’s how I break it down-

Your Wedding Day Morning

First, start with your ceremony time and then walk it backwards. Are you doing a first look with your partner or loved ones? Are detail photos (flatlay, dress hanging, rings, etc) important to you? How about candids throughout the morning? Where are you getting ready? Ensure that there is plenty of buffer time for travel.

The Ceremony

Then, discuss with whomever is performing your ceremony how long it will last. This will be helpful for determining the events following your ceremony.

Ask yourself these important questions- If you decide to have a recessional after the ceremony, where will it take place? Will family photos be captured at the altar? How long will cocktail hour be? Are you hoping to join your cocktail hour or use all of the time for photos?

Couple and Bridal Party Portraits

Do you already have a place in mind for portraits? The possibilities are limitless! Portraits can take place at your church/ceremony venue, reception venue, at a nearby park, museum, downtown, by the water, or even a combination of multiple places! If you don’t know where to start, I’m always happy to help. It’s crucial to allocate enough travel time between your ceremony, photos location, and reception if you’re planning on multiple locations.

The Wedding Reception

Lastly we have the reception. What are your thoughts on traditions such as a grand entrance, cake cutting, speeches, or first dances? Remember that this is YOUR wedding day, so whether or not you include any traditions, it’s up to you. How much of the after party and dancing do you want captured? Do you prefer the dancing to not be captured? Or do you want the full night documented? Typically I’ve found about an hour after the first dances is perfect.

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These are all questions that I ask my couples on our first call! If you don’t know some of the answers yet, that’s okay! I’m here to help! The first timeline we create can be altered. Above all, remember what your wedding day is all about. Make time for moments alone so you can enjoy your day. I’m so excited to get to know you and hear about your vision for your wedding day! Let’s chat.